Brad Deering, 42, was killed just outside his home in Escazu, Costa Rica in what is believed to be a targeted hit. The federal government has since issued a travel warning to Canadians visiting the country to be extra cautious. (Facebook) | Facebook

Brad Deering, a 42-year-old investor, was shot last week near his home in the suburb Escazu. The city is located just over 12 km southwest of the Costa Rican capital of San Jose and is known as one of the country's upscale neighbourhoods, notes The Globe And Mail.

Deering's death has prompted a travel warning from Canada, with a post on the website telling travellers that "there is no nationwide advisory for Costa Rica. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution and be vigilant at all times due to increasing levels of violent crime."

Violent crimes such as these are typically uncommon in the neighbourhood of Escazu, according to the Costa Rican Times and the majority of the country is safe for travellers said Diederik Wolsak, a Vancouver native who has run a wellness centre in Costa Rica for seven years.